Gemotions

"Dinner's ready," Sarah called from the kitchen. Michael barely acknowledged her. He sat at the kitchen table, the bank statement spread before him. He was supposed to be happy. They’d been talking about a vacation, about finally renovating the kitchen. But this… this threw a wrench into everything. He felt a deep, profound reluctance to join her.

He pushed the statement away, the paper sliding across the surface. He felt a burning in his chest. He stood up and walked to the front door, slipping on his shoes. He wouldn’t be eating. He wouldn't be smiling. He wouldn't be pretending.

He walked out into the cool night air. The streetlights cast long shadows, mimicking the darkness inside him. He walked away from the house, leaving his wife to wonder where he was. He felt a strong desire to stay away.